Neymar Wakes Up: Dazzling Dribbles, a Goal, and a Gritty Assist

Pele’s heir registers his first goal contributions since returning to Santos.

The excitement surrounding Neymar’s return to Santos has started to settle. The praise has quieted, replaced by cynical journalists speculating about the star’s future. His underwhelming performances only fueled the fire. But finally, the magician stepped into the spotlight, delivering his first goal and assist of 2025.

It took Neymar four matches. His debut against Botafogo-SP was solid — coming on for a half, he toyed with defenders, played a few sharp passes, and earned the MVP award. But it wasn’t enough for Santos, who drew 1-1.

Against Novorizontino, he started but struggled, losing possession 24 times, failing all his dribbles, and winning just 25% of his duels in 75 minutes. His teammates didn’t bail him out either — 0-0.

The Corinthians match lasted just over an hour for Neymar. His most memorable moment? Complaining about the quality of the match ball: "Come on, suppliers, this is good for kids in the favelas, not professional football."

Meanwhile, rumors spread across Brazil: Neymar had only returned for six months, supposedly using Santos as a stepping stone to regain fitness before rejoining Barcelona. Believe it or not, the growing gossip certainly sobered up the club’s fans.

A match against modest Água Santa was the perfect chance to win them back. And Neymar delivered. In the 14th minute, he won a penalty after dribbling past half the opposing team. He then coolly slotted it home, sending the keeper the wrong way.

But he didn’t stop there: five successful dribbles, six key passes, six duels won. He also created two big chances, one of which turned into a goal in the 70th minute with Santos leading 2-1. The assist wasn’t typical for Neymar — he pounced on a low cross, battled a defender for the ball, and, while falling, laid it off for a teammate to finish.

A 3-1 win, a well-earned MOTM award, and Santos now sit atop the Paulistão table.

Published by Patrick Jane
17.02.2025